In a consultative ballot over 90 per cent of GMB members voted to reject a 2.2 per cent rise on the basic rate of pay against a four year high in the cost of living across the UK, with the consumer price index (CPI) currently 2.9 per cent.

The Bo’ness site, which employs around 1,300 people, is a subsidiary of the international food manufacturing giant Bakkavor, and prepares high quality salads and ready meals for retail giants like M&S, Tesco and Waitrose.

Last year Bakkavor, the largest provider of freshly prepared produce in the UK, generated eye-watering revenues of over £1.7 billion.

GMB Senior Organiser Drew Duffy said: “This is a resounding rejection of Bakkavor’s below inflation pay offer by GMB members and it really shouldn’t come as a surprise to the management.

The rising cost of living and squeeze on wages in the UK have been well documented and an employer like Bakkavor should be more than able to make work pay for its employees.

GMB believes that Bakkavor can do better. Management should listen to the clear concerns of our members over their pay and bring forward an improved pay offer if it wants to avoid the prospect of industrial action.”